The Cambodia International Debate & Public Speaking Championship Series (CamDEBATE) – established in 2019 by IDP Education, a world leader in international education and student placement services – is anticipating a bumper turnout for this year's edition.

While the 2023 CamDEBATE attracted 525 contestants of eight nationalities  –Cambodian, Thai, Filipino, Malaysian, Chinese, French, American and Kazakhstani ­– from more than 100 schools and universities across Cambodia, some 1,000 participants are anticipated for CamDEBATE 2024.

CamDEBATE aims to cultivate a healthy culture of dialogue and the sharing of different perspectives to promote understanding, friendship and knowledge among young people in Cambodia through the development of problem solving, critical thinking and interpersonal skills.

Mao Sreng, IDP Education Country Director and CamDEBATE Convenor, described the CamDEBATE series as a premier professional development forum that fosters a culture of dialogue and respectful exchange of opinions.

"As contestants engage in a series of lively and stimulating discussions, this immersive process serves as a catalyst for learning, practical skills enhancement and expanding their knowledge base for personal development and future career aspirations," he said.

CamDEBATE helps students increase fluency and showcase their English language proficiency, as well as to independently learn, research and form opinions on complex topics that will contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals.

The 2023 CamDEBATE champions and finalists pose for a group photo with the judges. Supplied

“Joining CamDEBATE was a pivotal decision in my life. I used to be terrified of speaking in front of many people, but I overcame my fear and joined this competition because I knew it could transform my life – and it did. 

"And owing to the training we received, I could enhance my speaking skills to a new level,” said Sodany Chheang, a 2023 finalist.

At CamDEBATE, contestants will receive training from the Australian Centre for Education (ACE) and CamDEBATE’s institutional partners. 

Such training onboards techniques that enhance public speaking and debating skills, and improve critical thinking and problem-solving capacities, ensuring an enriching experience.

Minister of Information H.E. Neth Pheaktra encouraged Cambodia's youth to join CamDEBATE, a leading and rewarding platform for professional development in public speaking and debating, as such skills would vastly improve contestants’ academic and professional growth.

High school and university students – aged 15 to 23 – join CamDEBATE to enrich their skills and experience, with CamDEBATE champions awarded a two-week study tour to the UK, supported by Stafford House of CATS Global Schools in Britain, along with trophies, medals and ACE scholarships.

Contestants of 2023 CamDEBATE attend an orientation session. Supplied

British Ambassador to Cambodia HE Dominic Williams – a CamDEBATE judge last year – spoke of how impressed he was by the performances of the contestants, demonstrating their hard work and dedication. 

“The presentations have been outstanding, as contestants have researched their topics thoroughly and presented well-reasoned arguments, using clever rhetorical devices to grab the attention of the audience,” he said.

CamDEBATE 2024 has to date received support from institutions locally and internationally, including the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, the Ministry of Information, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, and the British Embassy Phnom Penh.

The Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, the Australian Centre for Education, IDP IELTS, Stafford House of CATS Global Schools, RMIT University, Monash University, Swinburne University of Technology, Deakin University and Macquarie University have also provided support.

To participate or to support, please visit: www.camdebate.org.